The Departments of Communication and Media, Film, Television and Media, and the Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences (QMSS) program at University of Michigan are seeking a highly experienced Chief Administrator to provide strategic, financial, and operational leadership across three academically vibrant units. This senior administrative role supports a combined academic community of more than 30 tenure-track faculty, 40 lecturers, nearly 40 PhD students, and close to 1,000 undergraduate majors and minors. The Chief Administrator leads a shared staff team and serves as a trusted partner to Department Chairs, the Dean’s Office, and College leadership. Ideal candidates bring deep experience in academic administration, financial and grants management, human resources, and student services within a research-intensive environment. Success in this role requires strong communication skills, comfort leading through change, and a commitment to equity, inclusion, and collaborative problem-solving. A bachelor’s degree and at least five years of progressive administrative and supervisory experience in higher education are required; a master’s degree and familiarity with University of Michigan policies are strongly preferred. Hybrid or remote work arrangements may be available at departmental discretion. Key Responsibilities & Expectations (Important Points) Financial Leadership • Oversee complex budgets across research grants, general funds, endowments, recharge, and discretionary accounts • Develop budget projections, fiscal controls, and compliance processes aligned with College and University policies • Advise Department Chairs on optimal allocation of financial resources for short- and long-term planning • Prepare detailed financial and statistical reports in collaboration with the LSA Finance Team Student Administration • Lead undergraduate and graduate academic services across multiple units • Partner with Chairs and Directors to strengthen student retention, success, and support models • Oversee GSI appointments, fellowships, recruitment, and student services operations • Establish and maintain policies, procedures, and best practices for student services teams Human Resources & Staff Leadership • Supervise and develop administrative staff in a collaborative, high-performance environment • Oversee faculty recruitment, appointments, reviews, promotions, and lecturer lifecycle management • Ensure compliance with HR policies, classification standards, and union contracts (LEO) • Support Chairs with research track hires, leaves, emeritus status, and split appointments Facilities & Operations • Plan and manage space utilization for research labs, production spaces, classrooms, and offices • Coordinate with LSA Facilities to support renovations and long-range space planning Governance & Strategic Leadership • Ensure compliance with University, College, and departmental policies • Represent departments across University units and external partners • Resolve operational issues, grievances, and administrative challenges • Serve on committees and participate in College-wide Chief Administrator leadership groups